19 August,2026 07:44 AM IST | Mumbai | Agencies
Taxi drivers in queues at the Mumbai Central RTO for mandatory Marathi language training and tests. File pic/Ashish Raje
The Maharashtra government will give autorickshaw and taxi drivers time to learn Marathi before taking action under the amended motor vehicle rules. State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik clarified that permits or licences will not be cancelled immediately, with the government aiming to protect livelihoods while ensuring passenger transport drivers have functional Marathi skills.
"There are around 9.16 lakh autorickshaws and 61,657 taxis in Maharashtra. A large number of them operate in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. We have decided to continue the initiative and make efforts to teach Marathi to those who do not know the language," Sarnaik said.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. Pic/X/@PratapSarnaik
The minister said more than 1.65 lakh people from across the state participated in the Marathi-learning initiative launched a few months ago. Sarnaik added that the Marathi Language Department would work with the Transport Department and other officials to take the initiative forward.
[popcorn number="Rs 1.65L" desc="Approximate no of people who participated in the Marathi-learning initiative" class="Default"]
"We will not deny anyone a permit, licence or badge. First, we will give them notice and an opportunity to learn Marathi. If they do not learn Marathi within the stipulated period, action will be taken as per the rules," Sarnaik said.
The process would involve a 30-day notice. If a driver continues to remain non-compliant, further action could be taken under the rules, including suspension or cancellation of the relevant authorisation, he said.
The objective is not to deprive drivers of their livelihood but to ensure those providing passenger transport services in Maharashtra have a working knowledge of Marathi.
The minister said that those who live and do business in Maharashtra should make an effort to speak the language. "The government would discuss the detailed procedure with officials and formulate a programme, including a longer-term training exercise," he said.
